[Hammarlund] SP-600 problem, more data

[Wally Gibbons]

First, thanks for the comments I've received about my reception problem.

I've done a little more work on the receiver. I tested the tubes. The
first 6BE6 mixer was flat. Barely moved the meter on the tube tester.
BUT prior to replacing I checked the AVC voltage while tuned to the
local station. 9 volts negative, max.

I replaced the 6BE6. WOW - big change in AVC. -30 volts now on the same
station. S-meter almost pins on the station. I don't hear the station
spread all across the broadcast band now, just near it's frequency. BUT,
it is now very distorted when tuned to it's frequency....

So, the next question, is a 150 foot long wire too much for an SP-600?
I'm thinking this may be the case. 150 feet plus two RF amps, even with
-30 volts of AVC on the grids the RF amps are probably
overloaded....more distant stations sound great. This thing was not as
sensitive as it could have been with the bad 6BE6. It's sure hot now....

BUT, my R-390 handles a longwire and the local station without overload.

Any feedback from other SP-600 owners? Do these things overload
"easily".

Thanks.


Wally Gibbons